MSI embraces AMD Neo for its X-Slim series

Although it wasn't officially launched yet, MSI's AMD-based X-Slim X610
found its way to a couple of Russian hacks who put it through its
paces. Back in May we said MSI would start using AMD Neo chips in some
X-Slim series models in Q3. New will most likely be restricted to
larger X-Slim models, the 14-inch X410 and the 15.6-inch X600.

The X610 is pretty closely matched to the CULV-based X600. They share
the same chassis, and most of the specs have remained unchanged, 4GB of
memory, 250GB of storage and Radeon HD 4330 discrete graphics with
512MB of memory. The X610 uses AMD's Athlon MV-40 at 1.6GHz, and in
most benchmarks it ends up somewhat slower than the Intel Core 2 Solo
SU3500. The differences aren't that big, however, and you're not likely
to see much of a difference in everyday use.

Sadly, the reviewers report that battery life is not as good as with
the SU3500, and you're looking at less than two hours under full load,
around 20 percent less than with the SU3500.

It all comes down to the price. If the X610 ends up significantly
cheaper than the €699 Intel version, it could become an interesting
alternative. Otherwise, stick to the X600.